Geometric correction and subsurface hardening for heritage sites in Mexico City. Lessons learned
Geometric correction and subsurface hardening for heritage sites in Mexico City. Lessons learned
Mexico City is affected by regional subsidence caused by groundwater extraction, a process that began in the late 19th century. Its effects are manifested through differential settlement, structural distortion, cracking, and failure in colonial-era buildings within the Historic Center. Numerous monuments exhibit structural distress due to cumulative differential subsidencea phenomenon that, unfortunately, will continue to evolve. Given that a drastic cessation of groundwater extraction is currently unfeasible, regional subsidence is expected to persist indefinitely.
To address this challenge, a mitigation strategy has been implemented to differentially harden the subsoil beneath these structures. This is achieved through the use of vertical mortar inclusions and grout curtains, or via structural underpinning with micropiles.
C. Julio Hernandez; Elvira Leon
4th International Symposium on the Preservation of Monuments and Historic Sites
Geohazards and Multi-Hazard Risk Assessment for Cultural Heritage
https://doi.org/10.53243/tc301-2026-98